Working with colleagues who speak different languages can be challenging, especially on digital platforms where communication is often fast and informal. However, with some strategies and tools, you can overcome the language barrier and collaborate effectively. Here are some tips to help you work with multilingual teams online.
Depending on the nature and scope of your project, you may need different platforms to communicate and collaborate with your colleagues. For example, you may use email for formal and official messages, chat apps for quick and casual conversations, video calls for meetings and presentations, and cloud-based software for sharing and editing documents. Choose the platforms that suit your needs and preferences, and make sure everyone in your team has access to them.
To avoid misunderstandings and confusion, you should set clear expectations with your colleagues about the goals, deadlines, roles, and responsibilities of your project. You should also agree on the language, tone, and style of your communication, and how often and when you will check in with each other. For example, you may decide to use English as the main language, but allow some flexibility for using other languages if needed. You may also choose to use formal or informal language, depending on the context and audience.
Translation tools can be very helpful for communicating with colleagues who speak different languages, but they are not perfect. You should always double-check the accuracy and clarity of your translations, and avoid using slang, idioms, or jargon that may not translate well. You should also be respectful and sensitive to the cultural and linguistic differences of your colleagues, and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes based on their language. If you are not sure about something, ask for clarification or feedback.
Working with colleagues who speak different languages can be a great opportunity to learn from each other and enrich your perspectives. You can embrace the diversity of your team by showing curiosity and interest in their languages, cultures, and backgrounds. You can also share your own experiences and insights, and celebrate your achievements together. By fostering a positive and inclusive environment, you can build trust and rapport with your colleagues, and enhance your collaboration.
I found getting to know people's likes and dislikes to be a good starting point in embracing diversity. Making effort to understand the diversity in your team open doors for gaining skills in interpersonal effectiveness. Lack of understanding create conflict which can lead to toxic environments - not safe for optimal performance. Being open to other perspectives and respecting other views even when you don't agree with it is a great skill to have in a team.
Feedback is essential for improving your communication and collaboration skills, especially when working with colleagues who speak different languages. You should seek feedback from your colleagues regularly, and be open to constructive criticism and suggestions. You should also give feedback to your colleagues, and be honest, respectful, and supportive. Feedback can help you identify and resolve any issues or challenges that may arise in your project, and also acknowledge and appreciate the strengths and contributions of your colleagues.
Working with colleagues who speak different languages can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it also requires constant learning and adaptation. You should keep learning about the languages, cultures, and preferences of your colleagues, and update your communication and collaboration strategies accordingly. You should also keep learning about the digital platforms and tools that you use, and explore new ways to enhance your efficiency and productivity. By keeping an open mind and a learning attitude, you can collaborate with colleagues who speak different languages on digital platforms successfully.
Embracing imperative soft-skills through the journey is pivotal in ensuring success of any collaboration....namely being inclusive & non-judgemental, patience & tolerance, being respectful towards one another, honest & constructive, tactful in seeking clarification, and being humble whilst presenting.